TMC's Saket Gokhale alleges Election Commission bias, raises concerns over fairness in WB bypolls
Kolkata: TMC MP Saket Gokhale has publicly criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI) over what he describes as alarming inaction and bias regarding key issues related to the upcoming bypolls in West Bengal. Gokhale revealed that on 8th November, the TMC had urgently requested a meeting with the full bench of the ECI to discuss serious concerns over the bypolls. However, despite continuous follow-ups, the ECI allegedly did not respond. By the morning of 9th November, TMC had escalated its efforts, sending a delegation of five MPs led by Floor Leaders from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha to Delhi. When the delegation visited the ECI around 3 p.m. and submitted letters outlining their concerns, they were still met with silence.
According to Gokhale, the TMC’s worries centre around two critical issues. Firstly, he pointed to the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in West Bengal, claiming that CAPF personnel are operating independently, without required cooperation with the local police—a violation of ECI protocols. Additionally, Gokhale stated that CAPF members have been visiting residents’ homes, threatening them to vote for the BJP. Secondly, Gokhale raised an issue over recent remarks by a BJP minister who reportedly told West Bengal Police officers to "remove the national emblem from your uniform and put a slipper instead," a statement he condemned as deeply disrespectful.
Gokhale expressed frustration that, despite TMC’s repeated efforts, the ECI responded only on 10th November, granting an appointment at 3:30 p.m., just 90 minutes before the campaign period ended. He asserted that this timing rendered the meeting almost pointless, leaving little time to address these urgent concerns before the close of campaigning.
Gokhale alleged that the ECI’s delayed response hints at an inclination to favour the BJP, facilitating interference in the electoral process. He described the situation as a “disturbing trend” in India’s democracy, expressing dismay over the apparent lack of fairness from an institution meant to safeguard impartial elections. Gokhale stressed that the ECI must remember its duty to uphold free and fair elections, not act as a tool for political interests.
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Bhatkal: New Shams School pays tribute to SM Syed Khalil
Bhatkal: The management and students of New Shams School gathered during their morning assembly on Saturday to mourn the demise of SM Syed Khalil, a prominent NRI businessman and a guiding force for the school.
Addressing the assembly, Education Board member Moulana Ziya Ruknuddin reflected on Syed Khalil’s remarkable life journey. He highlighted how Khalil, born under challenging circumstances following his father’s death before his birth, overcame significant obstacles to achieve great success.
“Khalil’s life is an inspiration for all of us,” Maulana Ruknuddin said, urging students to draw lessons from his resilience, dedication, and humility. He also emphasized Khalil’s commitment to supporting education and his role in uplifting the people of Bhatkal.
Moulana Ziya further acknowledged Khalil’s contributions to the school, noting his instrumental role in constructing the new campus of New Shams School. He described Khalil as a mentor and guide who was always available to offer his support and vision for the betterment of the institution.
Principal Liyaquat Ali and Board Secretary Syed Qutub Barmawar also attended the ceremony, along with teachers and other staff members, as they joined the students in paying tribute to the beloved community leader.
